Unions go on offensive against austerity cuts

UNIONS have attacked the UK coalition government’s “dangerous and damaging” programme of austerity cuts ahead of a major “There Is A Better Way” march this weekend.

Mike Kirby, Scottish secretary of public services union Unison, said ordinary people were being asked to pay too high a price and key public services were under attack.

He said: “The drastic spending cuts and attacks on benefits are hurting them and are hurting the most vulnerable people in society.

“The damage is also being passed down in the Scottish Government’s budget decisions, affecting every service our members provide.”

Trade unionists and others from Edinburgh will be among thousands expected to take part in the STUC-organised march and rally in Glasgow on Saturday, which coincides with protests in London and Belfast.